Netflix Expands Kids’ Gaming Push with New ‘Netflix Playground’ App

Streaming giant Netflix is deepening its push into interactive entertainment with the launch of a new stand-alone app, Netflix Playground, designed specifically for young children.

The app, included within a Netflix subscription, offers an ad-free experience with no in-app purchases—an approach aimed at creating a safe and controlled environment for families. Netflix Playground features an expanding library of games tailored for children aged eight and under, many of which are built around characters from popular kids’ shows.

At launch, the app includes titles such as “Playtime With Peppa Pig,” based on Peppa Pig, and a game inspired by Sesame Street that focuses on memory and coordination activities. Additional offerings include games like “Storybots,” “Bad Dinosaurs,” and creative experiences such as coloring and storytelling.

Netflix Playground is currently available in markets including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, the Philippines, and New Zealand, with a global rollout scheduled for April 28. The app is accessible on both iOS and Android devices and can be used offline, a feature the company says makes it particularly suitable for travel or situations without internet connectivity.

According to John Derderian, Netflix’s vice president of Animation Series and Kids & Family TV, the initiative is part of a broader strategy to blend viewing and interactive experiences. The goal is to allow children not only to watch their favorite content but also to engage with it in a more immersive and participatory way.

The move comes as Netflix continues to refine its gaming strategy. After entering the gaming space in 2021 with ambitious plans, the company has since scaled back its efforts following limited traction for some titles and the closure of several internal game development studios. With Netflix Playground, the company appears to be focusing on a more targeted segment—leveraging its strong portfolio of children’s content to create engaging, low-risk interactive experiences.

The launch signals a strategic pivot toward curated, family-friendly gaming, positioning Netflix to compete in the growing market for educational and entertainment apps designed for younger audiences.